Meaning of "If You Don't Want My Love" by Kim Carnes

The lyrics of "If You Don't Want My Love" convey a sense of resilience and self-worth in the face of unrequited love. The repetition of the phrase "If you don't want my love" emphasizes the singer's acknowledgment of the other person's feelings, while also affirming that they have value and options. By stating "I know who I'll give it to," the singer asserts their autonomy and agency in choosing where to direct their love, suggesting that they will not let rejection define their worth. The lines "If that's the way that the world goes around, Then that's the way that it all comes down" paint a picture of acceptance and realism, acknowledging the cyclical nature of relationships and the inevitability of certain outcomes. Ultimately, the song conveys a message of empowerment, self-assurance, and the ability to move forward with grace and dignity in the face of heartache.